Khalifa University rises one position in QS Arab Region University Rankings 2027.
Khalifa University has secured second place in the QS Arab Region University Rankings 2027, rising one position from third place last year and retaining its status as the UAE’s highest-ranked university for the ninth consecutive year.
The latest results place Khalifa University among the Arab world’s leading higher education institutions, highlighting its achievements in scientific research, academic excellence and international collaboration.
The university delivered particularly strong results across key research indicators, including the number of scientific publications per faculty member, research citations and the academic qualifications of its teaching staff.
It also received recognition for its internationally diverse faculty and the high percentage of professors holding doctoral degrees.
Khalifa University among world’s top 150 universities
The latest regional milestone follows Khalifa University’s advancement to 147th place worldwide in the QS World University Rankings 2027, placing it among the top 150 universities globally.
Khalifa University also achieved sixth place globally for Petroleum Engineering in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026, further strengthening its standing in specialised engineering education.
Together, these achievements underline the university’s expanding international reputation, particularly in science, technology and engineering disciplines that contribute to the UAE’s long-term development priorities.
Strengthening research, innovation and global partnerships
Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, said the institution’s improved rankings demonstrate its sustained commitment to scientific research, attracting academic talent and expanding international collaboration.
“Khalifa University’s rise to second place in the Arab region reflects the research strength, talent and international partnerships we are building in the UAE and beyond,” he said.
Al Hajri emphasised that the university’s ambitions go beyond securing higher positions in international rankings.
He explained that Khalifa University remains focused on advancing scientific discoveries and developing innovative technologies that can strengthen national industries, promote technological progress and support the UAE’s economic development.
“Our ambition extends beyond academic recognition,” he added.
How the QS Arab Region University Rankings work
The QS Arab Region University Rankings assess higher education institutions across 20 locations in the Arab region, measuring their performance against a range of academic and research indicators.
Universities are evaluated using several criteria, including academic reputation, employer recognition, research output, the quality of the teaching environment and international collaboration.
The assessment also considers scientific publications, research citations, faculty qualifications and the international diversity of academic staff.
Khalifa University said its latest ranking reflects ongoing efforts to enhance the quality of education, expand research capabilities and build stronger international partnerships.
The achievement also aligns with the UAE’s wider ambition to establish itself as a global centre for scientific research, advanced technology and innovation.
